Spring is finally here and with the warmer weather, there are plenty of exciting events taking place throughout the Sarasota, Englewood, North Port, and Venice areas. If you’re looking for fun activities to attend with family and friends, you won’t want to miss out on these upcoming events in April 2023.
Enjoy all things Easter
With Easter just around the corner, there are plenty of fun events to get into the spirit of the holiday. The University Town Center is currently offering pictures with the Easter Bunny now until April 8th, providing the perfect opportunity for children to meet the Easter Bunny and snap a memorable photo.
When:
Monday-Friday 11am to 7pm
Saturday 10am to 8pm
Sunday 11am to 6pm
For those looking to participate in an Easter egg hunt, there are a few different options available in the area. On April 1st, North Port will be hosting an “Eggnormous Easter Egg Hunt” at the City Center Front Green. This free event is for children ages 3-9 and the countdown will begin at 9am hosted by the Easter Bunny himself!
Ashton Elementary in Sarasota will be hosting an Easter egg hunt designed for children with Autism. This event is a great opportunity for children with autism to participate in an Easter egg hunt in a safe and supportive environment.
When & Where: 5110 Ashton Rd. Sarasota, FL 34233 at 11:45am
Finally, on April 8th, Venice High School will be hosting a free Easter egg drop for all ages. This exciting event involves dropping over 50,000 eggs from a helicopter, for children 11 and under. This event is perfect for the whole family and will also include bounce houses, food trucks, face painting and more.
When:
Saturday, April 8th
10am Doors open
10:30am First egg drop ages 1-6
11:30am Second egg drop ages 7-11
What’s Happening In Sarasota
On April 1, 2023, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium will be hosting their 37th annual run/walk for the turtles at Siesta Key Public Beach. This event is aimed at raising awareness and supporting the conservation efforts for sea turtles. The event is family-friendly and offers both a 1-mile run and a 5K run, allowing participants of all fitness levels to get involved. The event runs from 6:30 am to 9:00 am and will be held at Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Rd. Sarasota, FL.
On April 2nd, the Ski-A-Rees Water Show is happening at 2:00 pm on Ken Thompson Parkway in Sarasota. The non-profit organization has been performing weekly shows for Sarasota for over 50 years and is fun for all ages. Come out and watch these talented children and adults put on an incredible show.
Support the Humane Society of Sarasota County by attending their luncheon, “Paws on the Red Carpet.” This Hollywood-themed party includes food, drinks, shopping, and more. Dress to impress, as all proceeds will go directly to the animals that the Humane Society cares for this year. Doors open at 11:30 am at the Art Ovation Hotel in Sarasota.
If you’re a foodie, don’t miss the Tasting at Nathan Benderson Park on April 8th. Delicious food and drinks will be served, and all proceeds will be donated to the new aquarium that will be located near University Town Center.
Join Aveda Florida and NUOVO Salon Group for their ‘Walk for Water’ event on April 23, 2023, at 10 am. This free event raises awareness for the global water crisis and takes place at Marina Jack/Bayfront Park in Downtown Sarasota. The walk is 3.7 miles, so bring the whole family.
What’s Happening In Venice
In Venice, you can join in on an amateur acoustic jam performance at the West Blalock Park Gazebo on April 16th. Spectators are welcome, and acoustic instrument musicians are encouraged to join in. Bring your chairs and blankets and enjoy the wonderful music at 3:00pm.
For a family-friendly event, check out the two-day Sharks Tooth Festival in historic downtown Venice Centennial Park. Enjoy the many booths throughout the festival such as fossil collections, kids shark tooth dig, face painting, food trucks, live music, beer truck, and craft and art vendors. The festival will take place Saturday 10am-8pm and Sunday 10am-5pm.
On April 30th, take part in the 19th “Ride the Beaches” at Sharkey’s in Venice. There are three different course options, and this event supports three charities: Team Tony, Friends of the Legacy Trail, and Livestrong Foundation. Riders will be given breakfast, snacks along their ride, and a BBQ lunch served on the beach after they are finished. Register to take part in their 15, 35, or 70 mile race.
What’s Happening In North Port & Englewood
If you’re in Englewood on April 15th, don’t miss the opportunity to support the Lemon Bay High School Arts Department and Suncoast Animal Shelter. A full day of great food, live music, beer, wine, and vendors will take place at Pioneer Park – Parking Lot.
The Sarasota County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources and the Atlanta Braves will also host the 27th annual Big Truck Day on April 29th at CoolToday Park at 9am. The event will have food, games, and gives kids the chance to honk horns and turn knobs on over 25 trucks and heavy machines. This event is always a huge success and fun for all ages.